Eating difficulties in university students: friendship and mental health literacy

Abstract

University students are particularly vulnerable to eating difficulties emerging or worsening due to various stressors including moving away from home and navigating increased independence. During this time, friends start to become someone to confide in. Weight-related beliefs and habits also start to be explored, with attitudes and beliefs often influenced by those around them. The level of Mental Health Literacy (MHL) friends and fellow students hold may then influence their own attitudes and likelihood to seek support. This thesis aimed to explore MHL of eating disorders and the factors that may influence this in university students. The thesis also explored friends’ experiences in noticing signs, help-seeking and the impact supporting their friend has on themselves and their friendship. Chapter 1 introduced the next two chapters by exploring their rationale.
Chapter 2 consists of a systematic review of the factors associated with MHL of eating disorders in university students. Those at risk of eating disorders, women and Caucasian participants were found to hold higher levels of MHL. In addition, younger targets were rated as less responsible for their eating disorder and less severe eating disorder cases elicited less anger. The review indicates where universities should consider targeting communication and intervention strategies to address poorer MHL outcomes. Chapter 3 explored an empirical project understanding experiences of having a friend with eating difficulties whilst at university. Five themes were developed (a) Friends being the first to notice, (b) The weight of responsibility: The emotional and behavioural impact, (c) Supporting without guidance: Challenges and Strengths, (d) Encouraging help-seeking but facing barriers: Stigma and systemic struggles (e) Bridging the gaps: The need for more training, resources and support. Universities should therefore acknowledge the impact on friends through implementing better support strategies, raising awareness, and improving access to resources for friends.

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ORCID for Katy Sivyer: orcid.org/0000-0003-4349-0102

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